Teletherapy has become increasingly popular over the last few years. What started as a convenient alternative to in-person therapy has become a mental health staple in the COVID-19 pandemic. CNLD Testing & Therapy is proud to offer both in-person therapy and teletherapy programs to clients from all walks of life. Let’s take a closer look at how teletherapy works and if this platform is right for you.
What Is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is a form of mental health care that occurs over a secure line – either by phone or by tablet/computer. At our therapist office, we use HIPAA-compliant technology to protect the privacy of our clients. Clients have scheduled therapy sessions, just like they would in person. But instead of coming into the office to see a therapist, they have a virtual session with a licensed therapist.
The discussions that occur in teletherapy are similar to what you might expect in-person. The only difference is the setting for the appointment.
Is Teletherapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?
Many clients say teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. In fact, some find teletherapy even more effective than in-person therapy because they feel more comfortable talking in their home. With that in mind, teletherapy is not ideal for all situations. The technology can be a hurdle for some clients, and teletherapy may not feel as personable as in-person therapy.
At the end of the day, it comes down to what works best for your lifestyle, schedule, and mental health needs. You might enjoy a combination of teletherapy and in-person therapy, or you may prefer one option over the other. Our associates can help you discover the right path for you.
Will Insurance Pay for Teletherapy Appointments?
At CNLD Testing & Therapy, we accept insurance form Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Most of their plans cover teletherapy in the same way they cover traditional therapy appointments. We are happy to verify your insurance coverage in advance to provide pricing for co-pays, if applicable.
Teletherapy during the COVID-19 Pandemic
At the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, teletherapy became a much-needed lifeline for many of our therapy clients. CNLD Testing & Therapy was fortunate enough to be one of the few therapy clinics in the area with an already-established teletherapy program. We had the tools and technology in place to adjust to a rapidly-changing environment.
Our clients were able to continue talking to their therapists during lockdowns, stay-at-home orders, and health uncertainties because they had they option to meet online. A year later, many of our clients still utilize this option because it aligns well with their lifestyle.
Will CNLD Testing & Therapy Offer Teletherapy after COVID-19?
Our clinic established a teletherapy program well before the pandemic occurred. We wanted to provide accessible mental health care for times when coming to a therapy office simply wasn’t an option (schedule conflicts, travel, illness, moving for college, etc.). We have seen the longstanding benefits of teletherapy, and our clients love the flexibility it provides. We will continue to offer secure, confidential teletherapy long into the future.
If you’d like more information about teletherapy or you need to schedule a teletherapy session, contact CNLD Testing & Therapy at (734) 994-9466.